Big Leaguers Notebook: May 9

Justin Verlander throws second no-hitter of career

 Justin Verlander recorded his second career no-hitter and became just the 30th pitcher in Major League history to throw multiple no-nos (MLB.com). Verlander came within one pitch of a perfect game, with J.P. Arencibia walking on a close fastball in a 12-pitch at-bat (MLB.com). Afterward, the Tigers ace and self-proclaimed "filet connoisseur" treated close teammates to celebratory steak, wine and cigars at Toronto's Barberian's Steakhouse. (AP)

 Around the league, Anibal Sanchez, Yovani Gallardo and Jamie Garcia all flirted with no-hitters. Sam Fuld robbed a home run at the wall (MLB.com), and Brandon Guyer homered in his first Major League at-bat (MLB.com). Adrian Gonzalez launched a ball over Fenway Park's Green Monster to celebrate his 29th birthday (MLB.com), and Derek Jeter appeared in his 2,303rd game at shortstop for the Yankees to break Cal Ripken Jr.'s record for the most appearances at shortstop with a single team. (AP)

 Major League baseball players celebrated Mother's Day by wearing pink ribbons and swinging pink bats in support of breast cancer research and awareness (MLB.com). Defending world champion Matt Cain stopped by NBC's "Today Show" to talk about the league-wide pink initiative (NBCBayArea.com), and players from coast to coast joined in the Mother's Day celebration by talking and tweeting about their very special moms and wives. (Fox Sports / Twitter)

 After two brushes with death, Johnny Gomes is living the dream with the Cincinnati Reds. (E:60)

 Craig Breslow, a molecular biophysics and biochemistry graduate of Yale University, may be America's smartest athlete (Sporting News), but college graduates Brandon Gomes, Sam Fuld and Ben Zobrist are helping the Rays make a case as one of baseball's brainiest teams. (St. Petersburg Times)

 Seventeen-year baseball veteran Jason Isringhausen recalled his colorful career, from professional milestones and the hype of 'Generation K' to reckless rookie stunts and coping with the death of teammates. (New York Post)

 Mariners Shawn Kelley and Brandon League caused a little monkey business for the MLB cameras. (Twitter)

 Must see video: Marlin John Buck can't pronounce "Miccosukee," but at least he can hit a slider. (MLB.com)

Tweet of the Day: "The homer using a pink bat was for my mom today. She beat cancer 16 years ago and watches me play every game. Happy Mother's Day!" -- Mark Teixeira (@teixeiramark25)

Quote of the Day: "Fellas, why the long faces? It feels like a bad breakup." -- A lighthearted Andre Ethier joked to reporters after ending his impressive 30-game hitting streak. Ethier became just the 54th player to record a hit in 30 straight games. (Sports Illustrated)

This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.